The Blue Peter badge, an iconic symbol of achievement for children across the UK, offers more than just recognition. Badge holders aged 5 to 15 can access over 200 attractions nationwide for free, providing families with affordable and educational outings.
Earning a Blue Peter Badge
Children earn a Blue Peter badge by submitting creative works—such as stories, poems, artwork, or models—to the Blue Peter team. Successful applicants receive the badge along with a personalized badge card, which is essential for gaining free entry to participating attractions. The application process encourages creativity and engagement, making the badge a coveted award among youngsters.
Exploring Badge Attractions
The range of attractions accessible to badge holders is vast, encompassing museums, zoos, theme parks, historic sites, and more. This variety ensures that children with diverse interests can find engaging and educational experiences.
For instance, history enthusiasts can explore the Tower of London, delving into centuries of British heritage. Animal lovers might visit ZSL London Zoo, home to various species and conservation programs. Science-minded children can immerse themselves in interactive exhibits at venues like the Science Museum in London.
Maximizing Family Savings
The financial benefits of the Blue Peter badge are significant. Families can save substantial amounts on admission fees with free child entry to numerous attractions. For example, a standard child ticket to Edinburgh Zoo costs £17.20; utilizing the badge for free entry can lead to considerable savings over multiple visits.
These savings make regular family outings more affordable and encourage educational experiences without the burden of high costs.
Planning Your Visits
Before setting out, it’s essential to plan accordingly:
Check Attraction Participation: Not all attractions may participate in the Blue Peter badge scheme, and some may have specific terms. Consult the official Blue Peter website or the attraction’s site for confirmation.
Accompanying Adults: Typically, free entry for badge holders requires accompaniment by a full-paying adult. Review each attraction’s policy to understand any specific requirements.
Advance Booking: Some venues may require booking for badge holders. It’s advisable to contact the attraction beforehand to ensure a smooth experience.
Badge and ID Card: Ensure that the child carries both their Blue Peter badge and the corresponding badge ID card, as both are necessary for free entry.
Encouraging Creativity and Exploration
The Blue Peter badge scheme rewards creativity and promotes exploration and learning. By offering free access to a diverse range of attractions, it encourages children to broaden their horizons, engage with culture and history, and develop a lifelong love for discovery.
Parents and guardians can support their children’s applications by guiding them in creating thoughtful submissions, whether it’s a piece of art, a written story, or another creative endeavor. This collaborative effort can be both rewarding and educational, fostering a sense of achievement upon receiving the badge.
In Summary
The Blue Peter badge remains a cherished emblem of accomplishment for UK children, offering tangible rewards in the form of free access to many attractions. By understanding the application process and planning visits effectively, families can unlock a world of adventures, making education and exploration both fun and accessible.
